Is it too early to light my fire? I know, I know, the first day of autumn isn’t until September 22, and I have to confess that my family is headed to Destin for a late beach vacation. However, it’s not too early to start thinking about those chilly nights and holiday gatherings around the warming comfort of a fire. Valerie Holder Hedberg writes in the October issue of Romantic Homes that a fireplace anchors a room and offers a pleasing focal point. She says that even if not in use, the mantel and the anticipation of a fire say, “Welcome, Come sit awhile and unwind.” She, like I, loves the sounds and smells of a fire. She even had her home built to include six fireplaces. I only have two; one in the living room and a very small one in the dining room which has always made holiday family meals extra special.
Speaking of the holidays, it’s not too soon to think about how to make the mantel more festive. Our Della Robbia garland can be put up for Thanksgiving and remain through Christmas. You won’t have the worry of falling ornaments or dropping needles plus, you can use it again next year. You can even use several on stair risers for a festive décor. This would make a unique, economical gift for any fireplace owner on your gift list.
Even here in New Orleans, I know the morning will come when I’ll step outside to get the paper, see the red and orange leaves drifting on the breeze to the ground, and sniff the smell of burning wood in the air. Then I’ll tuck the paper under my arm, grab a cup of Jo and light my fire!
–Lorre Lei
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